From Bath to Taunton, here are some of the best gardens to visit in Somerset
Hestercombe Gardens
Experience these 50 acres of glorious gardens near Taunton. Spanning four centuries of garden design, Hestercombe Gardens offers a varied experience, including the Georgian Landscape Garden, the Victorian Shrubbery and the Edwardian Formal Gardens with a garden scheme designed by the acclaimed garden designer Gertrude Jekyll.
Fyne Court
The National Trust’s Fyne Court, in Broomfield, is a haven for widlife - so be sure to get that smart phone out to take some snaps. All the trails start at the car park and there are plenty of things to see en route, inlcuding the walled garden and the boathouse, which once stood at the top of the serpentine lake and shows a glimpse to Fyne Court’s grandeur and the stunning arboretum.
Prior Park
Prior Park is another National Trust property, located near Bath, and is open weekends only during the winter.
The view over the city are spectacular from the site and one of only four Palladian bridges of its design in the world can be crossed at Prior Park, which was created in the 18th century by local entrepreneur Ralph Allen, with advice from ‘Capability’ Brown and the poet Alexander Pope. Enjoy a six-mile circular route encompassing beautiful woodlands and meadows, an Iron Age hill fort, Roman settlements, 18th-century follies and spectacular views.
Barrington Court
Walk through acres of orchards and floral gardens at Barrington Court near Ilminster. The walled White Garden, Rose and Iris Garden and Lily Garden were influenced by Gertrude Jekyll, with playing fountains, vibrant colours and intoxicating scents.
The Newt
While the hotel, restaurants and The Story of Gardening are closed for lockdown at The Newt in Castle Cary, the gardens and shops remain open.
The gardens demonstrate a breadth of horticultural activities, celebrating the traditions of different eras using plants authentic to that time.
PLEASE CHECK WITH THE GARDENS ABOUT CURRENT OPENING TIMES AND GUIDELINES.
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